Non-Waivability In Labour Law: An Australian Perspective

Authors

Joellen Riley Munton, University of Sydney Law School

Abstract

Australian industrial relations laws traditionally provided detailed mandatory standards through a system of arbitrated occupation-based awards. In the years since a shift to enterprise bargaining, the system has tolerated a greater level of flexibility, even in the way that legislated minima are framed. The options for waiving otherwise mandatory standards are, however, limited by procedural protections. The Fair Work Commission maintains a supervisory role to ensure that workers are “better off overall” as a consequence of their bargains. This article explains the many ways in which Australian labour standards permit flexible application, within constraints designed to preclude exploitative practices.

Recommended Citation

Munton, Joellen Riley (2026) "Non-Waivability In Labour Law: An Australian Perspective," Comparative Labor Law & Policy Journal: Vol. 45: Iss. 4, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.60082/2819-2567.1082
Available at: https://digitalcommons.osgoode.yorku.ca/cllpj/vol45/iss4/4

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